The Omega Speedmaster is a watch rich in history, renowned for the number of achievements it has accompanied, particularly in places where humans had never set foot before—earning it the unanimous nickname “Moon Watch.”
This watch was originally designed for motorsport (hence the presence of a tachymeter), but it was selected by NASA in 1965 to accompany their astronauts on a project that would become legendary: setting foot on the moon for the first time in history during the Gemini and Apollo missions. This adventure would make it one of the most famous watches in horological history.
This watch is the last reference equipped with the 321 movement.
Like all collectible watches, the 145.012 reference presented here has specific features that allow experts to assess its authenticity—whether it is entirely original or has unfortunately undergone modifications over time. For a collector, its value is determined solely by these factors (see illustrations below).
The details that make it a rare and original watch are numerous, making the “game” even more exciting, especially as this watch follows an upward trend—vertical might be a better term.
Considering an estimated value of around €2,000 in 2005 and over €10,000 today in 2018, it would not be unrealistic to predict that this model will achieve record sales in the coming years, similar to the Rolex Daytona. Note also that the Omega Speedmaster was produced in smaller quantities than the Daytona...
This mythical timepiece is truly a collector's item, while there is still time and its price remains relatively accessible.
The Movement
The 321 Omega A3 movement, second generation, is a column-wheel chronograph caliber renowned for its precision and durability. Its robust design and high-quality finishes make it a reliable choice for high-end mechanical watches. This caliber is distinguished by its advanced technical architecture, incorporating a horizontal clutch and a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour, providing precise and consistent timekeeping. Production ceased in the late 1960s, making it a prized piece for collectors due to its quality and historical significance.
The Case
Asymmetrical steel case (produced from 1964). Manufacturer: La Centrale des Boîtes (CB).
The Dial
B3 dial. Spaced "T"s. The difference with the B2 dial (fitted to Speedmaster reference 105.012) lies in the position of the two "T"s in "T SWISS MADE T," which begin and end at the minute markers 28 and 37. The B2 dial was produced between 1966/67 and 1969.
Although the lifespan of tritium is estimated at around 15 years, some Omega Speedmaster 145.012 models still emit a faint glow. Two scenarios apply: either the tritium in the paint still has some effect, or the indexes were repainted with Luminova many years after the watch was produced.
The Bezel
B1 bezel. "70 diagonal." The bezel is relatively easy to identify, with three key points: a round dot positioned diagonally down from the number 70, a round dot diagonally up from the number 90, and an accent on the "È" in TACHYMÈTRE.
The Hands
C1 baton hands (teardrop). It is important to note that there are service hands for this model, replaced by the manufacturer after production of this reference.
The Caseback
A4 caseback. "Speedmaster" centered—single beveling.
The Crown
B1./32 crown reference. Narrow "Omega" with angled feet. 32 notches.
The Pushers
Thick pushers. Diameter: 5.0mm, width: 3.5mm.
